AS families across the country get together for Christmas, one Blakedown woman will be many miles away from her relatives, serving with a medical unit in Iraq.

Second Lieutenant Stacey Lidgate, 21, is one of many service personnel who will be deployed in Iraq over the festive season.

Normally based at Tidworth Barracks in Wiltshire, she is currently in the middle of a six-month tour with the Royal Army Medical Corps.

In her Christmas message to her mother, Christina, in Blakedown, she said: "Christmas wishes from sunny Iraq. I really wish it would snow."

Although they will be a long way from home, 2 Lt Lidgate and the other servicemen and women will be able to enjoy some festive decorations, food and carols. The Army's postal service will be helping to deliver cards and gifts from friends and families.

Every soldier will also receive a box of goodies from British companies.

With security levels remaining high in Iraq, troops will continue to be vigilant throughout Christmas and the New Year.

They are continuing to work towards rebuilding the country's infrastructure, including building and refurbishing schools, medical facilities and sports facilities.

The soldiers are also involved in Quick Impact Projects, which can be ready to be used by the local residents in a short amount of time as well as training and mentoring Iraqi security forces.